I usually don't take the time to answer any questions but it sounds like I just accomplished the same task that you are up against. I am using Corel Draw to create the majority of me graphic files, but the same code should apply to photoshop. I wanted my database to create a new graphic file in corel draw using the data from certain fields on the form to create the new file name. Then I needed the form to open the newly created file in it's native application (Corel Draw). By using the Shell function, you cannot directly open the specific file, you can only open the application in which it was created in (Corel Draw). By using the API Call "ShellExecute" instead of the "Shell" command, you can open specific files using the application that it was created in. You must do a few things before you can open the file. Here's a code flowchart:
1) First a dummy file must be created in the application in which the file will be created. This file will be a blank photoshop file. Tou database needs to know the location of this file.
2) Next your code needs to create a string equal to the file name that you want to create, then copy the dummy file to a standard location on your hard drive and rename it to the sting name that you created. (Note: be sure to include the file extension .psd in the string that you create)
3) now use the ShellExecute API Call to open the newly created file in photoshop. Note: You can only place the ShellExecute in a stand alone module. You cannot place it in the module attached to your current form.
Respond leaving me your email address, and I will try to walk you through it...Ty